Annual Events - Diwali Festival

Bharatnatyam dancer

Diwali - also known as the 'Festival of Lights' - is Wellington's local Indian and South East Asian communities' most vibrant cultural celebration. The lighting of lamps at Diwali expresses happiness and welcomes light and prosperity. The Wellington festival takes place in October each year.

Diwali features contemporary and classical Indian music and dancing (including a Bollywood dance competition), food and crafts, exhibitions and children's activities.

Diwali in 2011

In 2011, the festival was structured around the following events:

Diwali Garba Dance Night

A visual spectacle of garba and dandia-ras (stick) dancing.

Diwali Mela

The Diwali Mela showcased Indian and South Asian culture in Wellington. Highlights included:

• music and dance
• food and crafts
• children's activities
• the Diwali Bollywood Dance competition
• exhibitions and workshops.

Past activities and workshops have included sari tying, rangoli (traditional decorative designs made on floors or courtyards) and Indian games.

More Information

Department Details:
Recreation and Events